Shakira to Receive the Video Vanguard Award & Perform at the 2023 MTV VMAs

It’s finally official! Shakira will be receiving the Video Vanguard Award, also known as the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award, at this year’s 2023 MTV VMAs (Video Music Awards). The honor will take place at the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ, on Sep. 12. The award show will air live on the network.

“*screams* @SHAKIRA IS OUR 2023 #VMA VIDEO VANGUARD RECIPIENT 💛🏆✨,” the VMAs announced online. “Celebrate Shakira’s incredible career at music’s most iconic night, Tuesday September 12 on @mtv!” 

This marks the first time a South American artist will receive the prestigious award. She’s also now the second Latina to receive the award, following Jennifer Lopez’s honor in 2018. Other Video Vanguard Award honorees include Missy Elliott (2019), Rihanna (2016), and Beyoncé (2014), to name a few. 

Like the honorees do every year, the Colombian star will also take the MTV stage to perform her hits. This will mark Shakira’s first time performing at the VMAs in 17 years. Though we don’t know what songs she’ll sing, we know that Karol G will also perform on the same day. Could a live performance of their smash hit “TQG” be in the works? Or her joint track with Bizarrap?

“Shakira is a true global force who continues to inspire & influence the masses with her unique musical prowess. She’s a trailblazer for women around the world & one of the first artists to lead the globalization of Latin music,” the President of Music, Music Talent, Programming & Events, Paramount and Chief Content Officer, Music, Paramount+, Bruce Gillmer, reportedly said. “Her massive impact across the musical landscape will be long-lasting as she continues to create and entertain at the highest level.”

Other than the highly-anticipated award, Shakira is also up for four awards this year: Artist of the Year, Best Collaboration and Best Latin for “TQG” alongside Karol G, and Best Latin for “Acróstico.”

Fans can vote now for their favorite nominated artists on their official website. Catch Shakira receiving the Video Vanguarg Awar and the entire show via MTV on Sep. 12 at 8 p.m. ET.